Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

Electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT, is a safe and effective treatment for depression and other affective disorders that have not been responsive to antidepressants or other pharmacological approaches. It is also used in acute situations where immediate relief of depressive symptoms is essential. The treatment is performed by the evaluating psychiatrist, and anesthesia is administered by a board certified anesthesiologist. Nurses certified in advanced cardiac life support are present throughout the treatment, including the recovery period. This service is offered on both an inpatient and an outpatient basis at our conveniently located site at 1000 Herrontown Road, across the street from the Main Campus of Princeton House in Princeton.

PHBH also offers the official vagus nerve stimulation program in the state of New Jersey; in fact, Cyberonics has designated Princeton HealthCare System as one of their "Centers of Excellence" in VNS. VNS involves an implanted electrode for the treatment of depression.  Candidates for VNS include those requiring ECT frequently (3 or 4 times a year) and those who are not responsive to ECT and medications. This is a procedure performed at Princeton Surgical Center, a unit of Princeton HealthCare System, with follow up care at the ECT Suite near the Princeton House Main Campus.

To view frequently asked questions (FAQ) about ECT, please click here.

For more information regarding the ECT program at Princeton House Behavioral Health or the Vagus Nerve Stimulation Program, please call 609.497.2673. Ask for the ECT Care Coordinator.